Summer Festivals in North Dakota

For such a big state, North Dakota could certainly pull off a few more festivals during the summer months. Though the offerings are meager compared to the state's land mass, the festivals that do take place in North Dakota each summer pack a heck of a punch.

The Roughrider Days Fair and Expo takes place June 23^rd through July 4^th, and brings cars, animals, and music to Dickinson. Between the Dakota Drag Race at the Theodore Roosevelt Regional Airport, the 4-H horse, poultry, and pet shows and exhibits, the arts round-up, the rodeo, the demolition derby, fireworks, and concert with headliner Phil Vassar, anyone who can't find something to do at this great festival must be extremely hard to please. Find out more about all of the great events, and how to get tickets at http://www.roughriderdaysfair.com/

Celebrating the ethnic heritage of many area residents, the Ukrainian Festival in Dickinson offers three days of arts and crafts, exhibits, merchandise, music, and performances by the Stepovi Dity Ukrainian dancers. Held at the Ukrainian Cultural Institute from July 20^th through 22^nd, this annual festival brings thousands of visitors from every corner of the state and beyond. While at the institute, explore Ukrainian culture, religion, and art with educational displays, including hand-painted "Pysanky" eggs.

Capitol A'Fair in Bismarck showcases the art and craftsmanship of over one hundred artists and artisans from around the country. Each year, thousands of visitors come to Bismarck for the two-day event on the capitol grounds. Live performances by musicians and dramatic performing arts' groups, activities and games for the children, and plenty of food make this one delightful family gathering. The Capitol A'Fair takes place August 4^th and 5^th. For more information, see the website at http://www.bismarck-art.org/special%20events.dwt

The Island Park Show takes place on August 25 - 26, 2007 in Fargo, North Dakota. This arts and crafts show features nearly two hundred juried artists and artisan in over one hundred display booths. Crafters are on hand demonstrating their techniques, while their crafts are available for sale, including such works as handmade baskets, candles, wood cravings, clothes, jewelry, pottery, and photography featuring the North Dakota landscape. Barrel train and horse drawn carriage rides will be offered, and some of the state's best local talent will take to the stage. Glass crafters will also be giving glass blowing and molding demonstrations, and food is plentiful, with shaded picnic tables set up for dining right near the stage. Find out more about this great event at http://www.fargoparks.com/se_islandpark.html

No matter what your interests, be they craft fairs or rodeos, you are sure to find something fun to do for the entire family at one of these festivals happening in the state of North Dakota this summer.